MR J.J. MEIKLE'S AFFAIRS.

Wanganui Chronicle, Issue 12856, 30 October 1912, Page 5

MR J.J. MEIKLE'S AFFAIRS.

HIS WIFE'S APPLICATION

(Per Press '\Rsociat-inn.')

AUCKLAND. October 28

An application by Jane Meikle for maintenance and separation orders against her husband, J. J. Meikle, on the Grounds of desertion and failure to provide for her, came before Mr. O. C. Kettle, S.M., at t*>e Auckland Magistrate's Court on Saturday. Mrs. Meildn stated that she had been married for forty years, and that she had ten children. During July last year her husband wont Home, but failed to return, and it panic to her ears some timo ago that he was living at Epsom with a young woman of his acquaintance. Interrogated by the magistrate. Mrs. Moiklo stated that sho had no means, and that sho had been obliged to borrow money to enable her to come to Auck-1-nnd from Mataura, where she was living with a married daughter. Asked if he desired to give evidence on his own behalf the defendant, who was not represented by counsel, stated that ho did not wish to do so. If he did givo evidence, he said, some interesting facts would be disclosed. Tho magistrate then remarked that if the defendant did not challenge his wifo's statements, her application would bo granted. Orders for separation and for tho payment of £1 per week were accordingly made. Not at all pleased with the decision tho defendant remarked he hoped that his wife would get the money, but that he "didn't think she would." His next observation was that the Liberal Government—the Seddon-Ward Government —had ruined him and his family for over.